1. Purpose of this Policy
This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, which categories may be used on this site, and how you can manage your preferences. The goal is to present clear and neutral information so visitors understand how cookies support page delivery, preferences, and performance. This document applies to all pages under the WestHike name and complements our Privacy Policy. Where optional features exist, cookies related to those features operate only after your affirmative action.
2. What Cookies Are
Cookies are small text files placed on your device by a website. They allow the site to remember certain actions or preferences over a period of time and help maintain secure and efficient page delivery. Some cookies are strictly necessary for core functions, while others are optional and support preferences or aggregated performance insights. Cookies can be session-based (removed when the browser closes) or persistent (stored for a defined period).
3. Cookie Categories We May Use
⛰️ 3.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies (essential)
These enable core functions such as page loading, navigation, and basic security checks. They are required for the site to function and cannot be disabled through on-site tools. You may still block them in your browser settings, but doing so may affect essential features.
⛰️ 3.2 Functional Cookies (optional)
These support non-essential preferences, such as language or layout choices, if such options are offered. They are designed to improve convenience without altering core page delivery.
⛰️ 3.3 Performance Cookies (optional)
These help understand aggregated usage patterns and page stability. Data is viewed in a de-identified or aggregated form where feasible to evaluate general performance trends. They are not intended to build individual behavioral profiles.
⛰️ 3.4 Similar Technologies
Where appropriate, similar local storage or caching mechanisms may be used to support page responsiveness. Their behavior aligns with the principles described in this Policy.
4. Examples of Purposes
Maintaining secure session flow and mitigating abusive activity.
Remembering non-essential display preferences, if available.
Measuring general page responsiveness and error rates in an aggregated manner.
These purposes remain limited to site operation and improvements. No behavioral advertising or profiling is conducted through these categories.
5. Retention Periods
Cookie lifespans vary by category and purpose:
⛰️ Session cookies: removed when the browser is closed.
⛰️ Persistent cookies: retained for a defined duration to support preferences or performance observations.
Retention is reviewed periodically to ensure that durations remain proportionate to the stated purposes.
6. Managing Your Preferences
You can control cookies through your browser settings, including blocking, deleting, or configuring prompts before placement. If an on-site preference center is available, you may enable or disable optional categories directly there. Blocking strictly necessary cookies can affect essential page functions. The site is designed to remain readable even with limited cookie use, though certain convenience features may be unavailable.
7. Third-Party Context
If embedded components or external features are introduced in the future (for example, a map or a form integration), they may set cookies required for their operation. Such elements will be added with attention to necessity and minimized scope. Optional components will load only after a clear user action where applicable. Material changes to third-party cookie behavior will be reflected in an updated version of this Policy.
8. Do Not Track and Browser Signals
Some browsers offer “Do Not Track” or similar signals. Site behavior regarding these signals may vary depending on available technical options and the specific features enabled on the site. Regardless of signal handling, you may manage cookies at any time through your browser settings and, where offered, the on-site preference tools.
9. Changes to This Policy
This Policy may be updated as the site evolves or as features are introduced or removed. The “Last updated” date will indicate the latest version. Summaries of material changes may be provided for clarity. We encourage visitors to review this page periodically to remain informed.
10. Last Updated
This Cookie Policy was last updated on: [enter current date when publishing].
11. Contact Information (last section)
WestHike
⛰️ Address: Plus Code 7344+6V, Incline Village, Nevada, USA
⛰️ Phone: +1 775 832 5454
⛰️ Email: [email protected]
